Bible studies

Whether examined alone or in groups, Bible studies support faith formation and strengthen discipleship. These Bible studies, developed by American Baptist Home Mission Societies’ staff, are available at no cost. Our prayer is that they encourage you and your church groups as you walk the journey of being a Christian in the 21st century.

Children, Poverty and the Bible—This five-part Bible study explores the call of Scripture to uplift and care for children and the poor. Appropriate for weekly meetings, multi-day events or all-day events, it includes recommended discussion points and a complete leader’s guide.

Race and Poverty: Five-Session Study Guide—This resource examines attitudes and perceptions about race and poverty in America. Developed and published jointly by American Baptist Home Mission Societies, American Baptist Churches USA and the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship, this guide is appropriate for a Sunday school class, mid-week Bible study group or weekend retreat. No matter where or when you use it, you’re bound to be challenged by the questions it raises and the awareness it offers.

• Introduction
• Session 1: The Missional Moment—Deuteronomy 15:7-11
• Session 2: Poverty Uncovered—Amos 5:11-24
• Session 3: Seeing the Pain—James 2:1-13
• Session 4: Confession and Repentence—Revelation 3:14-19
• Session 5: Redemption and Reconciliation—1 John 3:11, 16-24

Rizpah’s Children—This is a print adaptation of a sermon preached by the Rev. Dr. Marilyn P. Turner, American Baptist Home Mission Societies’ Associate Executive Director, Missional Life and Leadership, at the June 2006 ABCUSA General Board meeting. Turner’s inspirational and motivational examination of 2 Samuel 21:3-10 forms the basis of a powerful call to action to American Baptists around the issue of Children in Poverty, appropriate for considering in a Bible study setting.